What To Know About Herpes Simplex Virus

Herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease worldwide. It is caused by a virus called herpes simplex. Infections can be categorized as oral or genital herpes, which is based on the affected part. Oral herpes can manifest by small blisters and cold sores in the lips or face. Genital herpes affects the anal and genital area. In some cases, herpes can also affect the skin, eyes and other parts of the body.

HSV is further divided into two types which is the HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 infects the mouth, throat, eyes and face. Infections in the central nervous system can also happen in the individuals affected by HSV-1. HSV-2 causes infections in the genital area. The diagnosis can be confirmed thru viral culture or by extracting the DNA of the virus in the blisters.

Direct Contact

Herpes spread primarily via direct contact. Oral secretion of the series is the one transmitting the virus via kissing or sharing of personal belongings such as toothbrush or utensils. HSV-2 can be contracted via sexual interaction. In the first month, it will show no symptoms. Eventually, sores will appear in the area where the virus was contracted. The series will then turn to painful and itchy blisters. Outbreaks will happen few or several times a year, depending on how long the virus has entered the body.

Outbreaks or attacks can be described as having fatigue, general illness, pain in the area of infection and even emotional stress. As of now, there is still no cure for the virus infection and treatments for the symptoms are the one available. Medications can lessen the pain on outbreaks and can also decrease the number of outbreaks. The most effective way of avoiding the infections is by refraining on having any sexual contact.